Management of a Heart Attack

Management of a Heart Attack

By Ritchie Verano

Warning signs of a heart attack are discomfort in the chest including; pain, pressure, tightness, heaviness, that may shift into the hand, neck, back, jaw, shoulder, arms (either one or both).  Other symptoms are dizziness, tiredness, sickness, nausea, shortness of breath, cold sweat and a feeling of doom.

Some people confuse the symptoms of indigestion with those of a heart attack, if in doubt treat as for a heart attack. One hint is that if the symptoms come on after eating a meal it most probably is indigestion.

If symptoms are evident, stop what you are doing immediately and rest in a comfortable position, preferably sitting up. 

Ask:                   How are you feeling?     Have you any discomfort or pressure anywhere?

            Do you have a history of heart problems? Do you have angina medication

Ask:                   Reassure!!! Take one puff/dose of GTN spray.  Wait five minutes.

            If the symptoms persist, take an additional puff.
            Wait five minutes.          
            If symptoms are ongoing call for an Ambulance and stress that this is a possible heart attack.

            Do not let the person walk around

            Keep them seated as it helps with breathing

Follow the instructions of the ambulance operators/paramedic.  Stay with the person and give reassurance until an ambulance or an on-site resuscitation team arrive.

Give aspirin to adults (300 mg oral/chew) if directed to do so.     

Commence CPR if a person is unresponsive and not breathing normally. Send someone to find the nearest defibrillator if you are in an area that has one (most shopping centres do). Instructions on how to use this are very clearly displayed on the lid.

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